If you are on Windows XP and haven’t patched all your machines with Windows XP Service Pack 3 yet, try one of the following options:

Use Windows Update – This option is recommended if you have just one XP computer that is also connected to the Internet. Go to Windows Update and it will automatically download & install all the important XP SP3 related files.

Download XP SP3 Installer CD – This option is for people who have a good Internet connection and need to install XP SP3 on multiple computers or systems that are offline. Head over to Download Center and get a free CD image of the Windows XP Service Pack 3 installation disk.

Slipstream XP SP3 – When you need to apply the XP SP3 patch on multiple computers without running Windows Update on each of them, just slipstream XP3 using your original XP setup disc.

Order XP SP3 Setup CD - Finally, if you are on a slow connection or need a more simple solution, just ask Microsoft to ship a ready-made Windows XP SP3 installation disk to your home.

Microsoft will ship just about anywhere – North America, Asia, Europe – but unlike XP SP2, you will need to pay the shipping charges which are around $11 if you are in India and $6 if you are located in US. Still not a bad option for some.

Block Windows XP3 on your Computer – If you are happy and content with XP SP2, get the SP Blocker – this tool will prevent installation of Windows XP Service Pack 3 on your computer if Microsoft tries to push the patch through Windows Update.

Amit Agarwal is a web geek and founder of Digital Inspiration, a popular tech & how-to website. He has been blogging for over a decade and has also contributed to the Wall Street Journal, Lifehacker and The Financial Express. Sign-up for the email newsletter for your daily dose of tips & tutorials.